Is Cats Safe?

Is Grapefruit Safe for Cats?

Toxic for cats

No — Grapefruit is toxic to cats.

Grapefruit
Photo: Ellen Levy Finch (Elf) · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Grapefruit is listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. The toxic component is Essential oils and psoralens. Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Grapefruit away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.

Scientific nameCitrus paradisii
FamilyRutaceae
CategoryPlants
Toxic principleEssential oils and psoralens

Signs to watch for in cats

If your cat may have been exposed to Grapefruit:

  1. Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
  2. Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
  3. Call your vet or a 24/7 line now — Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661 · ASPCA 888-426-4435.

Other Rutaceae plants

Plants in the same family (Rutaceae) are easily confused with Grapefruit — check each one:

Lemon ToxicBergamot Orange ToxicOrange ToxicLime Toxic

Cat-safe alternatives

RosemaryBasilSageChlorophytum

Browse all Plants for cats · or check another item.

Frequently asked questions

Is Grapefruit toxic to cats?

Yes. Grapefruit is reported toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Keep it away from your cat.

What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Grapefruit?

Reported signs include: Vomiting, Diarrhea, Depression, Potential dermatitis. Fruit is edible, Skins and plant material can cause problems.

What makes Grapefruit toxic to cats?

The harmful component reported for Grapefruit is Essential oils and psoralens. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.

How much Grapefruit is dangerous to cats?

There is no established "safe" amount — sensitivity varies by cat, and small exposures can still cause signs. Treat any exposure as potentially serious rather than waiting to see how much was involved.

What should I do if my cat ate Grapefruit?

Contact your vet or a 24/7 animal poison line right away: Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).